LONDON, (PIC)
Dozens of Arab figures in Britain have asked the UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy to apologize over his statement that belittled the Israeli war on Gaza and refused to describe it as a genocide.
Following is the official statement addressed to Lammy:
“As representatives of the Arab community in the United Kingdom, we express our profound condemnation of Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s recent remarks, which dismiss the term “genocide” in relation to the devastating Genocide inflicted upon the civilians of Gaza. Mr. Lammy’s words not only undermine the severity of the situation but disregard the internationally recognized definitions of International Law, that classify acts of systematic destruction, targeting of civilians, and blockade of humanitarian aid as hallmarks of genocidal intent. His comments diminish the grave realities documented by respected authorities such as UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, whose findings reveal actions that meet the criteria for genocide under international conventions as well as international organizations which repeatedly condemned Israel and described its actions as “genocidal”.
The Foreign Secretary’s failure to acknowledge the magnitude of human rights abuses in Gaza is particularly distressing at a time when civilian suffering has reached unprecedented levels. The recent expulsion of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from Gaza and the West Bank, depriving over a million Palestinians of food, medical supplies, and essential humanitarian support, is a profound escalation that deepens an already severe humanitarian crisis.
By disregarding these deeply troubling realities, Mr. Lammy’s statements obscure the full extent of ongoing atrocities and, whether intentional or not, serve to shield violations of international human rights standards. We urgently urge Mr. Lammy to immediately retract his comments, recognize the legitimate distress and suffering of the Palestinian people, and support the global efforts required to hold Israel accountable. We further call upon the UK government and international leaders to act decisively in upholding international law, securing justice, and ensuring the protection of the Palestinian people during this critical time.”
